What's new

Australia tour of South Africa (2023)

MenInG

MenInG

PakPassion Administrator
Staff member
Joined
Oct 2, 2004
Runs
218,165
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today confirmed the schedule for Australia’s white-ball tour of South Africa.

The tour will mark the start of the 2023-24 international home season, with Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium set to host all three matches of the KFC T20 International (T20I) series from 30 August – 03 September.

The five-match Betway One-Day International (ODI) series will get underway at Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein on 07 and 09 September, before the third ODI is contested at JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Tuesday, 12 September.

Both teams will then head to the Highveld, where SuperSport Park will host the fourth ODI on Friday, 15 September, with the final match of the 50-over series to be played at DP World Wanderers Stadium on Sunday, 17 September.

The Proteas welcome Australia for the first time since 2020, when the hosts bounced back from a 2-1 T20I series defeat to beat Australia 3-0 in the ODI series.

Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki commented: "It is the start of the international season for us and it is a particularly important campaign in many respects because of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup which is taking place in India later in the year. We haven't qualified just yet, but we hope to be there and challenging the best in the world when the tournament is played in October and November.

"Games and tours like these against a formidable Australia side can only do good for our Proteas Men. It is also an opportunity for coach Rob Walter and his team to keep building on the excellent work they have already done so far together.

"We look forward to watching them play and we hope that South Africans will come out in their numbers and get behind the team in what should be a highly competitive tour."

South Africa Inbound Tour against Australia

KFC T20I Series

Wednesday, 30 August – 18:00
South Africa vs Australia - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban

Friday, 01 September – 18:00
South Africa vs Australia - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban

Sunday, 03 September – 14:00
South Africa vs Australia - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban

Betway ODI Series

Thursday, 07 September – 13:00
South Africa vs Australia – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein

Saturday, 09 September – 13:00
South Africa vs Australia – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein

Tuesday, 12 September – 13:00
South Africa vs Australia – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom

Friday, 15 September – 13:00
South Africa vs Australia – SuperSport Park, Centurion

Sunday, 17 September – 10:00
South Africa vs Australia – DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
 
Out come of the ODI series should be interesting in the build up to the World Cup
 
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today named the squads for the white-ball tour against Australia.

Momentum Multiply Titans and former SA U19 batter Dewald Brevis earns his maiden call-up to both the T20 International (T20I) and One-Day International (ODI) squads. The 20-year-old made a name for himself as the leading run-scorer at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in January 2022 with 506 runs – the most by any batter in a single edition of the tournament.

The right-hander has since gone on to impress in T20 leagues around the world and currently holds the record for the highest individual domestic T20 score in South Africa – 162 off 57 balls – which he struck during last season’s CSA T20 Challenge. He also enjoyed success in the recent SA ‘A’ tour to Sri Lanka, where he hit a 71-ball 98 in the first unofficial 50-over match.

Joining Brevis in the T20I squad for the first time are his Titans teammates Donovan Ferreira and Gerald Coetzee - the latter could add to his Test and ODI caps if selected - as well as Dafabets Warriors batter, Matthew Breetzke.

Keshav Maharaj has been included for the second and third T20Is as well as the ODI squad as the spinner continues his comeback from a ruptured left Achilles tendon, which he sustained during the Betway Test series against West Indies in March.

Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada are rested for the three-match KFC T20I series and will return for the five-match Betway ODI series.

The 15-player squad for the World Cup will be announced on 05 September.

Commenting on the selection, white-ball head coach Rob Walter said: “We are looking for opportunities to grow our base of players, and the T20I series against Australia is a perfect chance to give some of the rising cricketers in the country the chance to show us what they are capable of.

"For this reason, we have included players such as Dewald, Donovan and Matthew. These are guys that have been performing consistently week in and week out domestically so we are now looking forward to seeing what they can do at the next level. They also possess a particular skill set that fits into the way we are looking to play the game moving forward.

“We are also happy to welcome back Keshav. He has made significant progress and is ahead of where we expected him to be at this point in time with his recovery and so we've included him in the squads to give him the best chance to be available for selection for the World Cup squad.

“If by some chance he's not ready to play in the second and third T20Is, he will then be replaced in the squad and then we'll set our target on the ODI series, which is even more important to us just a month out from the World Cup.”

Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe added: “This is a really exciting time for all South Africans; the World Cup is on the horizon and India awaits. I think every single one of the players that have been selected deserve full credit for making the squads.

"They have worked incredibly hard to get to this point and this tour against a strong Australia side will provide us the perfect preparation for what is to come over the coming months. I am sure it will be a very hard-fought tour against one of the world's best teams."

Proteas T20I squad against Australia

Aiden Markram (captain, Momentum Multiply Titans), Temba Bavuma (DP World Lions), Matthew Breetzke (Dafabet Warriors), Dewald Brevis (Momentum Multiply Titans), Gerald Coetzee (Momentum Multiply Titans), Donovan Ferreira (Momentum Multiply Titans), Bjorn Fortuin (DP World Lions), Reeza Hendricks (DP World Lions), Marco Jansen (Dafabet Warriors), Sisanda Magala (DP World Lions), Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Lungi Ngidi (Momentum Multiply Titans), Tabraiz Shamsi (Momentum Multiply Titans), Tristan Stubbs (Dafabet Warriors), Lizaad Williams (Momentum Multiply Titans) and Rassie van der Dussen (DP World Lions).

Proteas ODI squad against Australia

Temba Bavuma (captain, DP World Lions), Dewald Brevis (Momentum Multiply Titans), Gerald Coetzee (Momentum Multiply Titans), Quinton de Kock (Momentum Multiply Titans), Bjorn Fortuin (DP World Lions), Reeza Hendricks (DP World Lions), Marco Jansen (Dafabet Warriors), Heinrich Klaasen (Momentum Multiply Titans), Sisanda Magala (DP World Lions), Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans), David Miller (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Lungi Ngidi (Momentum Multiply Titans), Anrich Nortje (Dafabet Warriors), Tabraiz Shamsi (Momentum Multiply Titans), Wayne Parnell (Six Gun Grill Western Province), Kagiso Rabada (DP World Lions), Tristan Stubbs (Dafabet Warriors), and Rassie van der Dussen (DP World Lions).
 
T20I squad of SA is not looking stable... maybe their seniors are more focusing on ODIs due to worldcup,
 
Mitchell Marsh will take over Australia's captaincy for the white-ball tour of South Africa after Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc were ruled out with injuries.


Australia are also without the services of Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a fractured wrist that he sustained during the Ashes.

Smith is nursing a tendon injury to his left wrist that will take about four weeks to heal, while Starc has been experiencing groin soreness since his return from the UK.

Both Smith and Starc are expected to be fit in time for Australia's ODI series against India and the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. And have been given enough time to rest and recover before the coveted tournament begins.

"The compacted Ashes series and the World Test Championship was a heavy load for the group, and we are taking a conservative approach to the build-up to the World Cup," national selection panel chair George Bailey said.

Australia v Afghanistan: Mitchell Marsh goes on the attack, hitting three boundaries in an over.
"With the World Cup the priority of the squad, it was determined on advice that it was best for Steve (Smith) and Mitchell (Starc) to join the group in India by which time we expect them to be fully fit and available for the Indian ODI series, plus the World Cup warm-up fixture."

Meanwhile, Cummins is expected to join the team in the later stages of the South Africa tour.

Ashton Turner has replaced Smith in the T20I squad for South Africa, while Marnus Labuschagne and Spencer Johnson have replaced both Smith and Starc in the ODI squad.

The white-ball series comprises three T20Is, followed by five ODIs, and the tour begins on 30 August in Durban and concludes on 17 September in Johannesburg.


Schedule:

30 August: First T20I, Durban
1 September: Second T20I, Durban
3 September: Third T20I, Durban
7 September: First ODI, Bloemfontein
9 September: Second ODI, Bloemfontein
12 September: Third ODI, Potchefstroom
15 September: Fourth ODI, Centurion
17 September: Fifth ODI, Johannesburg

Australia T20 squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Adam Zampa

Australia ODI squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zam
 
Last edited by a moderator:
New-look Australia to field three debutants in first T20I against South Africa

Australia will hand international debuts to three players in the first T20I against South Africa on August 30.

Opener Matt Short, all-rounder Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson will all receive their maiden international T20I caps for Australia in the first match against South Africa in Durban.

The squad will be led by Mitchell Marsh as Australia are without multiple key players for their white-ball tour of South Africa. David Warner, Cameron Green, and Josh Hazlewood have been rested for the T20I leg of the tour but will be a part of the ODI series.

Australia, though, will be without the services of Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, and ODI skipper Pat Cummins for the entire tour of South Africa due to injuries.

Short will open the batting alongside Travis Head while Hardie and Johnson will add depth to Australia's pace bowling attack. Hardie, in particular, will also be able to contribute with the bat.

The upcoming T20Is will serve as a significant opportunity for Hardie and Johnson, as both have been named in the provisional Australia squad for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India. Strong performances in these matches can cement their places in the World Cup squad.

The white-ball series against South Africa holds particular importance for Australia as it represents one of the final preparations before the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India. The tour begins with three T20I games in Durban, followed by a five-match ODI series, concluding on September 17.

Australia's playing XI for the first T20I against South Africa includes: Matt Short, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (capt), Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, and Spencer Johnson.
 
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirms that the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) will not be broadcasting matches between the Proteas and Australia in the tour that commences in Durban on Wednesday.

After protracted negotiations, the two parties could unfortunately not reach agreeable terms to secure broadcast rights in time to cover the tour.

CSA and the SABC are proud to have, over the years, brought cricket content to the multitudes of cricket fans across the country. Through this partnership, content from the domestic cricket scene to the senior men’s and women’s teams was broadcast to waiting audiences, making the partnership between the SABC and CSA a thriving endeavor.

While CSA is disappointed at the prospect of many South Africans missing out on coverage of the thrill of the much-awaited Australia series, it reaffirms its commitment to making cricket accessible to all South Africans.

Consequently, CSA will continue to engage with the SABC to find common ground on the broadcasting of cricket content. This is as the public broadcaster pursues to fulfil its mandate of providing cricket coverage for the majority of South Africans, while CSA is unwavering in its quest to ensure that cricket reaches all corners of the country. It is a symbiosis that binds the two organizations together.

With CSA and the SABC partnership having provided mutually beneficial value in the past, CSA believes that it is in the interest of both the parties’ stakeholders that such a partnership be maintained into the future
 
South Africa vs Australia, 1st T20I

South Africa have won the toss and have opted to field

Teams:

Australia (Playing XI): Matthew Short, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh(c), Josh Inglis(w), Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Tanveer Sangha, Spencer Johnson

South Africa (Playing XI): Temba Bavuma, Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram(c), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs(w), Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Tabraiz Shamsi

Mitchell Marsh - We would have bowled first as well, but happy to set a total. Great honour to lead your country. Pretty relaxed atmosphere with the gutsy coming in. It's the start of the journey for next year's World Cup, we have played a lot together, but when you put up an Australian short, you want to put up a good show.

Aiden Markram - We will bowl first. Not 100% sure about how it'll play, but it should come better under lights and that's the reason for bowling. Always nice to play as a team,. we haven't played for a while now, excited to be back. We have two debutants in Gerald Cotzee and Dewald Brevis. Lizaad and Bavuma are back as well. Looks like a good wicket and should play well.
 
Tim David and Mitch Marsh partnership today:

97 runs off 8.2 overs

Crazy numbers!
 
Brief scores:

Australia 226-6 in 20 overs (M. Marsh 92 not out, T. David 64; L. Williams 3-44)

South Africa 115 in 15.3 overs (R. Hendricks 56; M. Stoinis 3-18, S. Johnson 2-33, T. Sangha 4-31)
Result: Australia won by 111 runs
 
Australia Secures Dominant Victory Against South Africa

In a high-octane cricket showdown, Australia demonstrated their prowess by clinching an impressive victory over South Africa. The match, which saw Australia setting a formidable target, unfolded with a series of gripping moments that left cricket enthusiasts at the edge of their seats.

Australia's innings began with a bang as they amassed a commanding total of 226 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allocated 20 overs. The star of the Australian innings was M. Marsh, who showcased his batting brilliance by remaining unbeaten at an astounding 92 runs. Supported by T. David's equally remarkable performance, the duo propelled Australia's score to new heights. However, the South African bowler L. Williams managed to make his presence felt with three crucial wickets for 44 runs.

In response, South Africa faced an uphill battle as they aimed to chase down the substantial target set by Australia. Despite a valiant effort, the South African batting lineup struggled to gain momentum against the relentless Australian bowling attack. R. Hendricks emerged as the standout performer for South Africa, contributing a commendable 56 runs to the team's total. Nevertheless, the combined efforts of Australian bowlers M. Stoinis, S. Johnson, and T. Sangha proved to be a formidable barrier for South Africa. They secured three wickets for 18 runs, two wickets for 33 runs, and an impressive four wickets for 31 runs respectively.

The match concluded with Australia emerging triumphant, leaving no room for doubt about their dominance on the field. With a colossal margin of 111 runs, Australia's victory underscored their exceptional teamwork, both in batting and bowling.
 
One return, two injuries confirmed as South Africa provide medical update.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have issued an injury update for three players during their ongoing white-ball series against Australia.

Keshav Maharaj is on the brink of a comeback from injury, just in time for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 in what would be a massive boost for South Africa. The left-arm spinner has been declared fit for the remainder of the T20I series against Australia and the ODI series that follows.

Maharaj ruptured his left Achilles during the second Test against West Indies in March and was out of international action since. He recently participated in the Dolphins' pre-season 50-over game against Tuskers in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday to test his fitness.

While the Proteas rejoice the return of Maharaj, two players have picked up new injuries.

Sisanda Magala has been ruled out of the second T20I against Australia due to a knee injury. The South African medical team will monitor him going into the third T20I on Sunday after scans revealed an infrapatellar tendinopathy.

Fellow quick Wayne Parnell has developed a recurrence of a left shoulder injury. A further update is expected from CSA after scans are conducted.

South Africa's white-ball series against Australia got off to a far-from-ideal start as they suffered a heavy 111-run defeat in the first T20I. The bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Aussie captain Mitchell Marsh (92* off 49) and explosive batter Tim David (64 off 28) launching a brutal assault during the middle overs.

Set a target of 227, South Africa were bundled over for just 115. Only three players managed to hit double-digit scores, with Reeza Hendricks top-scoring with 56.

Australia spinner Tanveer Sangha impressed on his T20I debut with figures of 4/31 breaking the back of the South Africa batting order.

South Africa and Australia will square off today, 1 September in the second T20I in Durban. Following the completion of the T20I series on Sunday, the two teams will play a five-match ODI series from Thursday, 7 September as they look to fine-tune their squad and combinations heading into the World Cup.

www.icc-cricket.com

One return, two injuries confirmed as South Africa provide medical update

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have issued an injury update for three players during their ongoing white-ball series against Australia.
www.icc-cricket.com www.icc-cricket.com
 
DURBAN: The Proteas Men’s medical team has provided the following injury updates for the ongoing white-ball tour against Australia.

Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj has been cleared for selection for the remainder of the KFC T20 International (T20I) series and proceeding Betway One-Day International (ODI) series.

The 33-year-old has progressed positively through his rehabilitation of his ruptured left Achilles and successfully participated in the Hollywoodbets Dolphins’ pre-season 50-over match against the AET Tuskers in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday.

Sisanda Magala
Sisanda Magala has been ruled out of the second KFC T20I due to a left knee injury. The 32-year-old felt discomfort during training and subsequent scans revealed an infrapatellar tendinopathy. The medical team will continue to manage him ahead of the third KFC T20I on Sunday.

Wayne Parnell

Wayne Parnell has developed a recurrence of a left shoulder injury. A further update on the extent of the injury will be provided following a scan.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
South Africa already in trouble 57/4

Aussies looking strong once again.
 
Good comeback from S Africa.

Finished up with 164/8 after being 46/4.
 
In the 2nd T20I of Australia's tour of South Africa, played in Durban on September 1, 2023, Australia delivered a stellar performance to secure a convincing victory over the host nation.

The match kicked off with South Africa batting first. They put up a competitive total on the scoreboard, thanks to some impressive batting displays by their top-order batsmen. However, Australia's bowlers exhibited discipline and control, chipping away with key wickets to restrict South Africa from running away with the game. South Africa concluded their innings with a challenging but achievable target for Australia.

Australia's innings was marked by outstanding batting performances. Their batsmen showed remarkable skill and adaptability, forging crucial partnerships and steadily closing in on the required runs. Despite a few hiccups along the way, Australia remained composed and focused on their chase.

In the end, Australia clinched victory by a margin of 8 wickets, with 31 balls remaining. This comprehensive win underscored Australia's strength as a well-rounded cricketing unit, capable of delivering in both batting and bowling departments.

As the tour continues, Australia's confidence will undoubtedly soar, while South Africa will look to regroup and refine their strategies to level the series. The series promises to offer more thrilling cricketing action as these two formidable teams battle it out on the field.
 
South Africa needs to improve alot if they are to challenge the top teams at the World Cup.
 
South Africa's performance is on a decline, and it's not as strong as it used to be. They need to make significant improvements if they want to perform well in the upcoming World Cup.
 
All-rounder gets teammate’s backing in Australia leadership role.

Australia’s white-ball tour of South Africa got off to a successful start under their new skipper, whose role has been applauded by his fast-bowling counterpart.

Mitchell Marsh got the first crack at winning the permanent role of Australia’s T20I captain, after his predecessor Aaron Finch retired from the game. The talented all-rounder was named as the captain for Australia's white-ball tour of South Africa.

And Marsh has ticked all the right boxes so far. He has led the side to two emphatic wins against the Proteas, giving them an unassailable lead of 2-0 in the three-match T20I contest. Moreover, he’s also given match-winning contributions in both games.

He was the Player of the Match in the first match for his unbeaten 92 from 49, which included 13 fours and two sixes. This helped Australia to a total of 226/6. They won this game by 111 runs.

He followed this up with an unbeaten 76 from 39 in the second T20I. Australia chased down a target of 165 in merely 14.5 overs, with eight wickets to spare. He thrashed the South Africa attack all around the park during this knock, hitting six sixes in the process.

This was no surprise to his teammate Sean Abbott, who won the Player of the Match award in the second game for his 3/22.

“I think the way he's playing on the park is just the way he's been playing for such a long time now,” Abbott said. “To Mitch's credit he's quite a level personality, certainly amongst the group.

“He hasn't changed at all since stepping into the captaincy, albeit only two games and having only been on tour for a week. Not surprised at all that he's doing really well and flourishing in his first two games as captain.

“It's really good to see because he's such a great person, such a good team man and really cares about people around him.”

Marsh will also lead Australia in the upcoming five-game ODI series.

Schedule:

3 September: Third T20I, Durban
7 September: First ODI, Bloemfontein
9 September: Second ODI, Bloemfontein
12 September: Third ODI, Potchefstroom
15 September: Fourth ODI, Centurion
17 September: Fifth ODI, Johannesburg

www.icc-cricket.com

All-rounder gets teammate’s backing in Australia leadership role

Australia’s white-ball tour of South Africa got off to a successful start under their new skipper, whose role has been applauded by his fast-bowling counterpart.
www.icc-cricket.com www.icc-cricket.com
 

South Africa vs Australia, 3rd T20I​

RSA 142/6 (16.1)​

CRR: 8.78
South Africa opt to bat

==

Teams:
Australia (Playing XI): Matthew Short, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh(c), Josh Inglis(w), Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Ashton Turner, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Tanveer Sangha

South Africa (Playing XI): Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke, Aiden Markram(c), Donavon Ferreira, Tristan Stubbs(w), Bjorn Fortuin, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi

Mitchell Marsh - We would have bowled first, think it's a bit tacky underneath. We've been great, the young guys have come in and done well, that's important for me as captain, we've put two good games together. International cricket is hard, but we have clear roles for the guys coming in.

Aiden Markram - We will bat first. We haven't been up to the mark so far, hopefully, we will put up a better show today. It's not intimidating, but it' a tough task, holding the nerves is probably the most crucial thing today. We have got three changes, Keshav is back, Donovan Ferreira and Matthew Breetzke are in, Rassie, Shamsi and someone else misses out.
South Africa have won the toss and have opted to bat
 
190/8

Nicely poised match.

Still fancy Aussies to win.
 
Australia win by 5 wickets

Far too easy that for Australia.

South Africa's bowlers struggled badly.
 
Australia secured a convincing victory in the 3rd T20I against South Africa, completing a 3-0 series sweep in Durban. Despite South Africa's recovery to post a competitive total of 190 for 8 after being 122 for 6 in the 14th over, Australia chased it down successfully. However, Australia's path to victory was aided by South Africa's four dropped catches during the match.

Travis Head and Josh Inglis played pivotal roles for Australia, with both batsmen being given two lifelines each, surviving drops on scores of 53 and 55 for Head and 12 and 40 for Inglis. They combined for an 85-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilizing Australia's innings after two early setbacks. Inglis was eventually dismissed for 42, but Head continued to build partnerships, putting on 58 runs with Marcus Stoinis and finishing with an impressive 91, ensuring Australia's victory.

South Africa, despite experimenting with their XI throughout the series and introducing two debutants in this match, couldn't challenge Australia effectively. Donovan Ferreira was the standout performer for South Africa, scoring 48 runs off 21 balls to bolster their innings.

In South Africa's innings, Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram provided a solid start with a 58-run partnership for the second wicket, and Hendricks and Tristan Stubbs added 46 runs for the third wicket. However, no other partnership managed to surpass 11 runs. Marcus Stoinis was effective with the ball for Australia, making early breakthroughs, including dismissing Temba Bavuma for his second consecutive first-ball dismissal in the series.

Stoinis, who opened the bowling, accounted for Bavuma's wicket as his second ball found the edge of Bavuma's bat, resulting in a catch taken by Travis Head. Stoinis continued to apply pressure, and Matthew Breetzke, a debutant, fell into the trap, attempting to hit Stoinis over mid-on but ending up splicing the ball straight to Tim David. This dismissal left South Africa struggling at 12 for 2 in the third over.
 
Toss coming up in 15 minutes

Confirmed XI of South Africa: Temba Bavuma (capt), Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

Confirmed XI of Australia: Travis Head, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh (capt), Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
 
So then news from the ground is that Australia has won the toss and has opted to field.

Mitch Marsh: We'll bowl first. It's a bit cold later on, that's the main reason. Looks like a fine wicket. The guys coming in will fit in easily, we have an experienced group out here. I have a lot of respect for SA, they are a very good cricket side. We'll be looking at a few players in this series, 5 games in 10 days will be difficult.

Temba Bavuma: We were looking to bat first, put up a good total on the board. We've got a proper sighting of the challenge we have, happy to have the guys who are back. We just have to put our plans in place and nail our execution. Cohesion is the biggest goal, we need to get that synergy going and build some momentum as a team, get the confidence going.
 
It's interesting to see Stoinis with the new ball. He is getting a fair bit of movement too
 
QDK Out for 11 from 31
if he can't score on this pitch then it shows how slow this pitch is
south africa 19/1
 
When I looked at the Australian score earlier on I thought SA will win easily.Australia are with a chance now.They say never right off Australia
 
Labuschagne and Agar doing very well.

South Africa looking a bit flat at the moment.
 
Came as concussion sub and took his team to home from 113/7 to victory on a difficult pitch is a top effort. Labuschagne definitely making a case for WC selection.
 
If South Africa can't win from a situation like this, they don't have much hope going forward in the World Cup.
 
South Africa appeared to struggle under pressure otherwise, they had a significant opportunity to successfully defend this total especially after making early breakthroughs by taking wickets.
 
Labushagne should have been included in the 15, he will be crucial on low scoring difficult tracks and today he showed that he has great variety of shots under pressure for LOI cricket.

One of Cameron Green/Josh Inglis/Sean Abbot should make way for him in the final 15.
 
Match Report: 1st ODI (D/N), Bloemfontein, September 07, 2023 - Australia Tour of South Africa

Labuschagne's Heroics Seal Thrilling Win for Australia

In a thrilling encounter at Bloemfontein, the 1st ODI of the Australia tour of South Africa lived up to its billing as a closely contested battle. Australia emerged victorious, thanks to Marnus Labuschagne's heroic performance as a concussion substitute, outshining Temba Bavuma's lone efforts for the home team.

Australia's Early Woes:

The match began with South Africa batting first after winning the toss. Temba Bavuma led from the front, scoring a magnificent century, despite losing partners at regular intervals. However, the Proteas struggled on a challenging pitch, managing to post a total of 222 runs. Bavuma's unbeaten 114 off 142 balls was a standout innings as he became only the second South African to carry his bat in an ODI.

Josh Hazlewood was the pick of the Australian bowlers, finishing with figures of 3-41. Marcus Stoinis provided valuable support with his 2-20, helping restrict South Africa.

Labuschagne's Heroic Rescue Act:

Australia's chase got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets, and the team found themselves at 72 for 5. The situation worsened to 113 for 7, leaving them in a precarious position. However, in a performance reminiscent of his Ashes heroics, Marnus Labuschagne took the center stage.

Labuschagne, who had been left out of Australia's World Cup squad, came in as a concussion substitute for Cameron Green, who was struck by a Kagiso Rabada bouncer. Labuschagne's unbeaten 80* off 145 balls was a masterclass in anchoring an innings under pressure. He found a reliable partner in Ashton Agar, and the duo put on an unbroken 112-run partnership, a record for the eighth wicket in Bloemfontein, to guide Australia to a thrilling three-wicket victory.

Bavuma's Fitness Concerns:

Despite his heroic century, Temba Bavuma's fitness raised questions during the match as he suffered from cramps towards the end of his innings. This situation led to limited involvement in the field, with Aiden Markram taking charge of tactical decisions for South Africa.

Conclusion:

Australia's win in the 1st ODI was a testament to their resilience, with Labuschagne and Agar showcasing their skills under pressure. Temba Bavuma's century was a bright spot for South Africa, but their inability to defend the modest total proved costly. As the series unfolds, both teams will look to fine-tune their strategies and prepare for the upcoming World Cup, with plenty of intriguing cricket action expected in the matches to come.
 
Arsalan Pro said:
Labushagne should have been included in the 15, he will be crucial on low scoring difficult tracks and today he showed that he has great variety of shots under pressure for LOI cricket.

One of Cameron Green/Josh Inglis/Sean Abbot should make way for him in the final 15.
Click to expand...
Sean Abbott is a pacer who can actually hit a bit in the lower order. Green is also an all-rounder. Inglis is the spare wicket-keeper. It should be between Smith and Marnus - you don't need more than 1 anchor in ODI cricket nowadays.
 
2nd ODI is underway now

Australia put in to bat and are off to a good start: 150/2 after 19.1 Overs

It is good to see Warner back in form

From Marsh: Aaron Hardie and Tim David come in for their debut which is exciting. Nathan Ellis comes in for Josh Hazlewood. Batter heavy. It should be interesting. Marnus is in again. he's very excited."

From Bavuma: We've got three changes. Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee and Keshav Maharaj miss out. Tabraiz Shamsi, Andile Phehlukweyo and Anrich Nortje come in."

Australia 1 Travis Head, 2 David Warner, 3 Mitchell Marsh (capt), 4 Marnus Labuschagne, 5 Josh Inglis, 6 Alex Carey (wk), 7 Tim David, 8 Aaron Hardie, 9 Sean Abbott, 10 Nathan Ellis, 11 Adam Zampa.

South Africa 1 Temba Bavuma (capt), 2 Quinton de Kock (wk), 3 Rassie van der Dussen, 4 Aiden Markram, 5 Heinrich Klaasen, 6 David Miller, 7 Marco Jansen, 8 Andile Phehlukwayo, 9 Kagiso Rabada, 10 Anrich Nortje, 11 Tabraiz Shamsi
 
Australia dismantling South Africa here,
330/3 in 42 overs
Labuchagne 109 from 90. Surely the way he's going, he'll have to be recalled into the Aussie WC squad
 
1694268538273.png

Tim David makes his ODI debut today. Those are some impressive list A stats. The game is well set up for him with 7 overs left
 
Man, Inglis was killing it until Rabada showed up. 😒 50 and out, huh? But Labuschagne's holding it down with 123. Aus at 343-4? This match is heating up!

AUS 356/5 (44.3)
 
The other thing i'm looking forward to is seeing Manus batting in the death overs. Can he put the pedal to the floor?
 
Asad T said:
The other thing i'm looking forward to is seeing Manus batting in the death overs. Can he put the pedal to the floor?
Click to expand...

And just as i say this he gets out. Great innings, though, 124 from 99
(Marnus was born in South Africa, hence the love from the crowd)

1694269230512.png
 
Whoa, so Labuschagne's out after that crazy 124 run-show? Hats off to Shamsi. Carey and Hardie just stepped in; wonder what they'll add to the mix. Rabada's making it tough out there, especially for the newbies. AUS is at 362-6, still pretty strong.


AUS 362/6 (46.1)
 
Lol Australia already scored 369 and Shamsi celebrating taking Carry's wicket (his 4h though)..
 
Wow, AUS ending on 392-8 after 50 overs? That's a mountain of runs. 😳 Rabada tried to keep it tight at the end, but that no-ball six from Ellis must've stung. Abbott and Ellis are adding some last-minute drama to the score. Can't wait to see how the other side responds to this.


AUS 392/8 (50)
 
Flat pitches are ruining cricket. Insane total. There needs to be a balance. Can't have such pitches with absolutely zero help for bowlers.
 
I am not watching the match.Is the pitch batting friendly or SA bowled poorly?.I doubt if SA can chase this.
 
Aus have the best batting unit easily

Wow.

They could easily bring In guys like stonis in the middle for Inglis too. Green to come back along with marsh plus Cummins, starc, Zampa and either hardie or Ellis.

Plus labushagne. That's 7 bowling options potentially. 6 plus 1 part time technically speaking
 
Fenrir said:
I am not watching the match.Is the pitch batting friendly or SA bowled poorly?.I doubt if SA can chase this.
Click to expand...
Batting friendly and sa bowling poor. Combo really.
It's getting ridiculous with the rubbish flatties.
 
De Kock's on a roll, already at 17 in just 2 overs! 😲 Head and Abbott gotta tighten up. RSA off to a flying start at 17-0.

RSA 21/0 (2.2)
 
Wow De Kock lucky, that hit on stump reasonably well but bail didn't come off..
 
Quinton on fire, just hit 2 back-to-back 6's
he has hit 43 from 26

1694274013353.png
 
8 overs down and RSA's cruising at 72-0. De Kock and Bavuma are both making it look easy. Ellis had some close calls last over, but still no wickets. Things are heating up!
 
Excellent caught & ball by Ellis.. finally he was lucky.. De Kock gone..
 
Match slipping now for South Africa, 3 wickets down and the RRR increasing
 
South Africa 144/4 after 20 overs. Run rate is very good but have lost too many wickets I guess. This partnership would be the KEY.
 
Zampa gets the big wicket of dangerous looking Klaasen and Australia are now clear favorites to win this match.
 
South Africa have been very poor lately, they will be clear underdogs going into the World Cup. Lets see if they can spring a few surprises there.
 
Australia’s win in the second ODI over South Africa in Bloemfontein gave them the No. 1 place in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings.

Days after Pakistan had toppled them from the No. 1 place in the Men’s ODI Team Rankings, Australia reclaimed their spot with a win in the second ODI against South Africa.

After winning a thriller in the first match in Bloemfontein, Australia won the second ODI by 123 runs.

Put in to bat first, Australia got a blistering start from Travis Head and David Warner. Head would score a quickfire half-century, while Warner brought up his 20th ODI ton as Australia got a solid foundation. Marnus Labuschagne, Australia's hero in the first ODI win, then continued his brilliant run with another ton. This allowed Australia to post a mammoth total of 392/8 in their 50 overs.

South Africa got off to a rapid start but simply could not sustain the momentum, despite valuable knocks from Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen. Adam Zampa was the star with the ball for Australia, ending with figures of 4/48, as South Africa were bowled out for 269.

With this win, Australia have 121 points on the Men’s ODI Team Rankings points table. This puts them one ahead of Pakistan, who are on 120.

Ever the dominant ODI side, Australia have continued doing well in the limited overs format.

In the 2022 season, they lost a closely-fought series against Sri Lanka away from home. Their hiccups continued after reaching the Australian continent when they were humbled by Zimbabwe in a dead rubber after having won the series. However, the Kangaroos followed that with a 3-0 drubbing of regional rivals New Zealand at home.

In November 2022, they whitewashed England 3-0, again at home. They then went on to beat India in India in March 2023. With the win against South Africa in Bloemfontein, they have now taken a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

The two sides are evenly matched at the top, with India closely following them. With a number of ODI contests coming up, the equations and rankings might change even further.


ICC
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

Devadwal
Australia Tour of South Africa (2026)
Replies
7
Views
198
Ted123
T
Chikkeh
Pakistan vs South Africa (2025) - Broadcast Thread
2
Replies
81
Views
8K
topspin
topspin
hassan918
Australia Tour of Zimbabwe (2026) [3 ODIs]
Replies
0
Views
80
hassan918
hassan918
sweep_shot
West Indies tour of South Africa (2026) - 3 T20Is
Replies
15
Views
403
sweep_shot
sweep_shot
BouncerGuy
South Africa tour of Australia (2025) - 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs
9 10 11
Replies
842
Views
15K
jnaveen1980
J
Back
Top